Community Corner

Fundraisers Set to Benefit Scotty O'Brien

Two fundraisers are coming up in September to help out the 19-year-old who broke his neck.

Two fundraising events have been planned for September to benefit Scotty O’Brien, son of guidance counselor Nancy O’Brien.

O’Brien, 19, sustained a  in an accident at the beach in May, and on Sept. 3, there will be an intuitive art exhibit and benefit titled “Behind the Smoke.”

The artists who will be featured are H.L. Groen, Tao LaBossiere, Roberta Mockus, Peter O’Brien, and Scotty O’Brien.

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The exhibit will take place from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. at the Hartford Art Space, located at 555 Asylum Ave., Hartford.

Guests are being asked to bring a favorite dish to share for a potluck dinner. Guests are also asked to bring their own beer, liquor, or any other kind of beverage. There will also be a drum circle and jam session and instruments are welcome.

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The suggested donation is $10, but any amount is welcome. All proceeds will go the O’Brien family.

Though he has little movement from his shoulders down, O'Brien is painting again - some of his work will be featured - and will be well enough to attend the event.

"He's an amazing kid," family friend Patricia Garafolo said. "He's home now. His attitude is great. Life continues to be a struggle for he and his family, but all continue to smile constantly. He's an amazing guy and his mom, dad, and brother are remarkable people."

Garafolo said that the family is looking to buy a van with a wheelchair lift to make transportation easier.  

"It's very, very difficult, but the family is willing to do what is necessary... and getting him there is necessary," she said.  

On Sept. 17,  there will be a mini golf fundraiser at Perfect Swing on Sullivan Avenue in South Windsor.

Tee times are 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on a first come basis. The cost is $40 for a team of four. The proceeds will go to the “Scott O’Brien Benefit Fund.” You can also sponsor a hole for $25.

To register, go to the South Windsor Parks and Recreation Department Web site and go to Activity # 170000.


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